Harper's Up For Tyne-Wear Derby

In all his years with Newcastle, 15 of them, Steve Harper has never been able to line up against Sunderland in front of the St James' crowd. This will change on Sunday and he can't wait for his chance: 'It will be my first derby with Sunderland at St James' Park,' Harper said.

'I have played twice at the Stadium of Light and we have drawn both of those games.

'It will certainly be different to those two games. I have played in front of 48,000 of their fans, and it will be different on Sunday when there are 52,000 Geordies screaming us on.

'It was great to be part of it at the Stadium of Light, and it will be the same on Sunday.'

Will Harper maintain his unbeaten record in the Tyne-Wear derby clashes, finally making it third time lucky (in his first St James' clash) in terms of gaining a win?

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